Citrus maxima: A Brief Review on the World’s Largest Citrus Fruit

Abstract

Citrus fruits are well-known for their active constituents, Citrus maxima or Pomelo is one such fruit of the genus Citrus that is widely significant for its dietary and traditional values. Its array of phytoconstituents is highly regarded from pharmacological perspective. Its botanical description boasts of vibrant anatomical and morphological characteristics. Citrus maxima fruit is the largest Citrus fruit belonging to the family Rutaceae, native to south-east Asian countries. It’s commonly called as Pomelo, Shaddock or Pummelo. In addition to its nutritional-value it has received wide-spread appreciation and acceptance for its phytochemical, ethnobotanical, pharmacological and medicinal properties. Various extracts of Citrus maxima have been scientifically evaluated in experimental animal models to be effective in treatment of microbial diseases, diabetes, oxidative-stress, hepatic damage, algesia, inflammation and as depressant in CNS etc. They are rich in several important vitamins, minerals and phytoconstituents such as carbohydrates, flavonoids, carotenoids, coumarins, monoterpenes, triterpenes, benzenoids, steroids and citric acid. This review paper presents an overview of the Citrus maxima fruit and its pharmacological actions.